Internet use among patients with psychosomatic disorders: what are the health-related demands and needs?

J Health Psychol

Medical University Hospital Tuebingen, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy, Osianderstrasse 5, Tuebingen, Germany.

Published: October 2011

While Internet-based health-related offers for various disorders are increasing, little is known about the way patients with psychosomatic disorders use the Internet. We conducted a questionnaire survey in outpatient clinics at two university hospitals' Departments of Psychosomatic Medicine. Seventy-four percent of N = 274 patients had Internet home access and 60 percent of those patients reported health-related Internet use. Patients expressed the wish for more professional, evidence-based online information and expert-guided treatment. The survey results support the Internet's high potential in future treatment strategies for patients with psychosomatic disorders.

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http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1359105311401671DOI Listing

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